💸 Grease Someone’s Palm: The Slick Art of Bribes and Tips 💰
To bribe someone; also, to give a gratuity. This term has been around since the sixteenth century, and apparently a version of it was known even in Roman times, when Pliny the Younger called it unguentarium, translated as “ointment money” (Epistles, ca. A.D. 98). “Wyth golde and grotes they grese my hande,” wrote John Skelton (Magnyfycence, ca. 1529).
Similar Terms and Expressions:
- Throw someone a bone - An informal term for giving someone a small reward or concession.
- Kickbacks - Payments made to someone for facilitating a transaction, often illicitly.
- Palm greasing - The act of giving a bribe.
- Under the table - Used to describe money or services exchanged in secret or illicitly.
- Sweeten the deal - Adding something more to make an offer more attractive.
Synonyms:
- Bribe
- Tip
- Gratuity
- Payoff
- Bribery
Antonyms:
- Honesty
- Transparency
- Integrity
- Fairness
Humor-Filled Quotes:
“Money can’t buy happiness, but it can damn sure lubricate the axles!” — Anon
Proverbs:
“Every man has his price.” – English Proverb
Suggested Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Book: “Bribery and Corruption Casebook: The View from Under the Table” by Joseph T. Wells and Laura Hymes.
- Song: “Money Talks” by AC/DC.
- Poetry: “Ode to Money” (fictional poem, conceptualize it as humorously eulogizing cash and corruption).
- Movie: The Wolf of Wall Street (2013).
### Which term signifies giving someone an illicit payment?
- [ ] Nudging an elbow
- [x] Greasing someone’s palm
- [ ] Dancing on rooftops
- [ ] Doodling in the sand
> **Explanation:** "Greasing someone’s palm" refers to bribing someone, whereas the other options are nonsensical.
### True or False: 'Under the table' refers to secretive dealings that are often improper or illegal.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** “Under the table” means secretive or illicit dealings, typically involving money.
### What does 'sweeten the deal' mean?
- [ ] To make oatmeal taste better
- [ ] To add something extra to make an offer more appealing
- [x] To tip your waiter generously
- [ ] To compliment someone
> **Explanation:** "Sweeten the deal" means to add something extra to make an offer more appealing.
May your journey through the twisted paths of language be as enlightening as it is entertaining. Until next time, remember: words, like coins, can sometimes slip through your fingers but leave their mark on your palm.
Yours in lexical adventure, E. Z. Dough
